Climate and monthly weather forecast
Barnstable, MA

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The climate of Barnstable

Barnstable, Massachusetts, USA, falls under the Köppen climate classification Cfa, denoting a humid subtropical climate with no dry season. This means that Barnstable experiences a variety of weather patterns throughout the year, with defined seasons yet a relatively high average humidity of around 75-83%. Winters are chilly, while summers are relatively warm. Pressure variations throughout the year are minimal, varying from 29.93in to 30.06in.

From a geographical perspective, this town is positioned on the southeastern coast of Massachusetts, influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which sets the stage for abundant rainfall year-round, peaking in October at 1.89in. The coldest part of the year is January, with average high temperatures reaching 38.3°F (3.5°C) and lows sitting at 30.4°F (-0.9°C). Conversely, the warmest months fall between June and August, when residents can expect temperatures to soar to highs of 72.1°F (22.3°C) to 72.5°F (22.5°C) and dip lows of 67.3°F (19.6°C) to 68.2°F (20.1°C).

Understanding the interplay between humidity, temperature, and rainfall is integral to analyzing Barnstable's weather. For instance, humidity hovers around 83% in the middle of the year, during the hottest months. This, when coupled with high temperatures, can make summers feel quite muggy. One particular note of interest is the scant snowfall experienced in Barnstable, with most months recording no measurable snowfall, and the highest snow accumulations of 0.63in seen in January and February.

The best time to visit Barnstable

The optimal time to visit Barnstable would be during the late spring and early fall. April to June typically see pleasant temperatures, with highs varying from 47.1°F (8.4°C) to 72.1°F (22.3°C) and lows ranging between 42.4°F (5.8°C) to 67.3°F (19.6°C). These months also offer extended daylight hours, providing ample opportunity for sightseeing. Similarly, September promises agreeable weather conditions with highs of 67.5°F (19.7°C) and a comfortable low of 62.8°F (17.1°C).

The worst time to visit Barnstable

January and February prove to be the most challenging months to visit Barnstable. Freezing temperatures, reaching lows of 30.4°F (-0.9°C) in January and 30.7°F (-0.7°C) in February, coupled with the relative humidity, make these winter months inhospitable for most tourists. Similarly, high levels of rainfall in October, measuring up to 1.89in, could dampen outdoor activity plans.

Spring weather in Barnstable

Spring in Barnstable varies from March through May. March sees a spring thaw, as temperatures gradually rise from 38.8°F (3.8°C) to 55.6°F (13.1°C) by May, and a corresponding increase in daylight hours from 12h in March to 14.6h by May. This season also witnesses a shift in precipitation levels from a mix of rain and snow in March, with rainfall measuring 1.02in and snowfall 0.39in, to exclusively rain in April and May.

Summer weather in Barnstable

Summer runs from June through August, characterized by warm weather and long well-lit days with an average of 15.2h of daylight in June. Temperatures peak from 72.1°F (22.3°C) to 72.5°F (22.5°C) during these months, with June being the driest month recording rainfall of 1.1in.

Autumn weather in Barnstable

Autumn spans September to November and is known for its moderate weather. September retains remnants of summer warmth, with high temperatures of 67.5°F (19.7°C), and gradually dips to 51.1°F (10.6°C) by November. Rainfall begins to increase during these months, culminating in the wettest month of the year in October with 1.89in.

Winter weather in Barnstable

Winter brings cold weather to Barnstable in December through February, with low temperatures reaching a nadir at 30.4°F (-0.9°C) in January. Snowfall is also present during these months, though typically not exceeding 0.63in in January and February. This period is characterized by fewer daylight hours, averaging at 9.2h in December.

Weather in January

Initiating the year, January in Barnstable, Massachusetts welcomes visitors with an average high of 38.3°F (3.5°C) and a low of 30.4°F (-0.9°C), making layers a common sight. The early months of the year bring biting chills to this coastal town, demanding the locals to pull out their heavy coats. Weather in January »

Weather in February

A minimal increase in average temperatures distinguishes February from its preceding month. While snow still borders the town's streets and roofs, it somewhat diminishes compared to January, suggesting the arrival of warmer times. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March witnesses a warming trend, with temperatures rising modestly. It's a welcome transition period between wintry chills and the blooming spring. March sees further decline in snowfall, signifying the end of the white winters of Barnstable, Massachusetts. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April stands as an emblem of Spring's arrival with temperatures noticeably higher than those recorded in March. The town, no longer in the grip of winter, springs to life as nature embarks on its annual renewal. The frost-washed terrace of winter gets replaced with gentle showers encouraging the sprouting of fresh green foliage. Weather in April »

Weather in May

The heart of Spring, May guarantees warmer and longer days in Barnstable, Massachusetts. The sunshine becomes more pronounced, outlining the landscapes in clear, bright light. The transition from refreshingly crisp morning air to the warmer midday heat hints at the upcoming summer. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June welcomes summer, presenting a warmer temperature spectrum. The frequent and significant sunshine lends a vibrant hue to the town, bringing the seaside culture back to life. With the sea temperature touching 57.7°F (14.3°C), beach life begins to flourish in Barnstable, coaxing residents towards fun-filled outdoor activities. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is the warmest month in Barnstable, with temperature levels peaking at an average high of 72.1°F (22.3°C), highlighting the mid-summer climate. Long, sunny days and blue skies are a hallmark of this time of year. The incoming tide of salty sea-breeze carries welcome respite from the midday summer sun. Weather in July »

Weather in August

Towards the back-end of summer, August exhibits slight moderation in temperature compared to July. The weather remains predominantly warm and humid, with the oceans maintaining an inviting temperature for water-based activities. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September initiates the transition from summer to fall, as temperatures begin a downward trend. A noticeable difference can be discerned in the temperature between day and night, marking the end of the sweltering afternoons. Amidst the cooling temperatures, September holds onto the warmth. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October welcomes Fall with cooling temperatures and the roar of the fall winds. Barnstable, Massachusetts prepares for a visual feast, with nature painting an array of warm colors across the town. The drop in average temperatures necessitates warmer attire. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November's weather in Barnstable can be unpredictable, with lower temperatures slowly setting the winter stage. The town's foliage changes from vibrant yellows and oranges to subdued browns, mimicking the earth tone of November's weather. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Concluding the year, December marks the onset of winter and festive season. Temperatures dip further as compared to November, paving the way for the inevitable snowfall. With the town's daily life slowing down, the spirit of the holiday season captures everyone's attention. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 12, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What are the coldest months?

January, noted for its average high-temperature of 38.3°F (3.5°C) and an average low-temperature of 30.4°F (-0.9°C), is considered the coldest month.

How many days does it rain?

Throughout the year, there are 129.6 rainfall days, and 13.94" (354mm) of precipitation is accumulated.

When does it snow?

January through April and December are months with snowfall.

What is the snowiest month in Barnstable?

The months with the most snowfall in Barnstable, Massachusetts, are January and February, with an average 0.63" (16mm) of accumulated snow.

How much does it snow?

In Barnstable, during the entire year, snow falls for 21.6 days and aggregates up to 2.17" (55mm) of snow.

What are the months with the lowest UV index in Barnstable?

The months with the lowest UV index in Barnstable are January through March, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.

When is the ocean coldest?

March is the month with the coldest seawater, with an average ocean temperature of 39°F (3.9°C).

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.

What are the most humid months?

May through July, with an average relative humidity of 83%, are most humid months.

When it does not snow?

In Barnstable, snow does not fall in May through November.

When are the longest days?

The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 15h and 12min of daylight.

What are the months with the highest UV index in Barnstable?

July and August, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index.

What is the hottest time of year?

August stands out as Barnstable's warmest month, with temperatures ranging between an average high of 72.5°F (22.5°C) and a low of 68.2°F (20.1°C).

What is the driest month?

August is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 11.3 days and accumulates 0.94" (24mm) of precipitation.

When is the ocean warmest in Barnstable?

August is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average ocean temperature of 67.5°F (19.7°C).

What month has the most sunshine?

The month with the most sunshine is August, with an average of 10.8h of sunshine.

What is the rainiest month?

The month with the most rainfall is October, when the rain falls for 12 days and typically aggregates up to 1.89" (48mm) of precipitation.

What is the least humid month in Barnstable?

The least humid month is November, with an average relative humidity of 74%.

What is the month with the shortest days?

With an average of 9h and 12min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.

What is the month with the least sunshine?

With an average of 4.6h of sunshine, December has the least sunshine of the year in Barnstable.

Average temperature
Barnstable, MA

Average temperature - Barnstable, MA

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (72.5°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (38.3°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is August (68.2°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (30.4°F).

Average pressure
Barnstable, MA

Average pressure - Barnstable, MA

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.06"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.93"Hg).

Average wind speed
Barnstable, MA

Average wind speed - Barnstable, MA

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (16.4mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (10.4mph).

Average humidity
Barnstable, MA

Average humidity - Barnstable, MA

The months with the highest relative humidity are May, June and July (83%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is November (74%).

Average rainfall
Barnstable, MA

Average rainfall - Barnstable, MA

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (1.89").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is August (0.94").

Average rainfall days
Barnstable, MA

Average rainfall days - Barnstable, MA

The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (13.2 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (8.1 days).

Average snowfall
Barnstable, MA

Average snowfall - Barnstable, MA

The months with the highest snowfall are January and February (0.63").
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August, September, October and November (0").

Average snowfall days
Barnstable, MA

Average snowfall days - Barnstable, MA

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (6.6 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August, September and October (0 days).

Average sea temperature
Barnstable, MA

Average sea temperature - Barnstable, MA

The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (67.5°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is March (39°F).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Barnstable, MA

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Barnstable, MA

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 12min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 12min).

The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 10h and 48min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 4h and 36min).

Average sunshine days
Barnstable, MA

Average sunshine days - Barnstable, MA

The month with the most sunshine days is September (18.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is February (14.8 days).

Average UV index
Barnstable, MA

Average UV index - Barnstable, MA

The months with the highest UV index are July and August (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, November and December (UV index 2).

Average visibility
Barnstable, MA

Average visibility - Barnstable, MA

The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).

Barnstable, Massachusetts, USA

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